Models work the runway during Whiteout 2013 at the McNichols Building. The winter-themed show and art exhibit featured local artists and designers. (Photo by AAron Ontiveroz/The Denver Post)

The McNichols Building in Civic Center has quickly become the hot spot for art shows, parties, benefits and, lectures since renovations on the historic structure were completed last fall.

But it hadn’t been used for a big fashion show until the Art of Winter presented Whiteout in the space on Thursday. The stylish hordes turned out for the event, which featured art installations, Orange Peel Moses on springy stilts, a photo booth and a DIY art table. Pizza, cupcakes and an open bar added to the festive atmosphere (not to mention the Drambuie luge) and helped guests pass the two hours before the show began.

For some brides, only a custom wedding gown will do. But they don’t have to go to Los Angeles or Manhattan to find a designer to create such a dress. Among the local gown creators is Deedee Vicory, whose D’Lola Couture tailoring, design, and manufacturing business is in Olde Town Arvada.

Vicory fell in love with bridal gowns when she was a little girl attending her aunt’s wedding and began creating dresses when she was in high school. “I always thought she looked so beautiful on her wedding day and since that time have always wanted to be a part of weddings,” she says.

Brides-to-be in Denver this weekend can watch Vicory create a couture gown from start to finish. On Sunday the designer will be outside the H&M store at the Denver Pavilions on 16th Street Mall from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. constructing a gown from her collection. Brides may register to win this design until 3:30 p.m., and the winning name will be drawn upon completion of the dress.